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Warts are small, noncancerous growths on the skin caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). They can appear anywhere on the body and vary in size and shape. HPV enters the skin through tiny cuts or breaks, prompting the rapid growth of cells on the outer layer of the skin. While not directly linked to any specific condition, factors like weakened immunity or contact with an infected person elevate the risk. Though it doesn’t hurt, many people want to remove it. If you’re also dealing with it and want to know how to get rid of warts, we are here to help.
“Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the primary culprit behind warts. This virus enters through minor skin cuts, triggering rapid cell growth on the skin’s surface,” says Cosmetologist Ritu Khariyan. Factors that increase the risk of contracting HPV and developing warts include:
If you are looking for natural ways to get rid of warts, you can try these home remedies that can help remove warts:
The acidic nature of apple cider vinegar can help dissolve warts. Apply a small amount of vinegar directly to the wart using a cotton swab and cover it with a bandage. Repeat this process daily until the wart disappears.
Over-the-counter medications containing salicylic acid can effectively remove warts by gradually breaking down the layers of the wart. Follow the instructions provided with the product for the best results.
Honey possesses anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, making it a natural remedy for warts. Apply honey directly to the affected area and cover it with a bandage. Regular application may help eliminate the wart over time.
Aloe vera gel has antimicrobial properties and promotes skin healing, making it useful for treating warts. Apply fresh aloe vera gel to the wart and cover it with a bandage. Repeat this process daily until the wart disappears.
Prescription-strength imiquimod cream stimulates the immune system to fight off HPV and treat genital or anal warts. Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully when using this medication for optimal results.
If home remedies for warts aren’t effective, or if you have a large or stubborn wart, consult a dermatologist. They can offer treatments such as prescription medications, laser therapy, or surgical removal.
While warts are generally harmless, they can be uncomfortable. Here are 9 ways to get rid of warts that your doctor may recommended by Khariyan:
Many over-the-counter treatments, such as salicylic acid or cryotherapy kits, can effectively remove warts. Follow the instructions carefully and be patient, as it may take several weeks for results to show.
Covering the wart with duct tape may help suffocate the virus and encourage it to go away. Keep the duct tape on for about six days, then remove it, soak the area in water, and gently scrub the wart with a pumice stone or emery board. Repeat until the wart disappears.
Your doctor may prescribe medications such as topical creams containing retinoids, which help break down the wart tissue and stimulate the immune system to fight the virus.
This involves freezing the wart using liquid nitrogen, causing it to blister and eventually fall off. Multiple sessions may be required for complete removal.
Laser treatment targets and destroys the blood vessels feeding the wart, causing it to shrink and eventually disappear. It’s often used for larger or stubborn warts.
For particularly large or resistant warts, surgical excision may be necessary. This involves cutting out the wart and surrounding tissue under local anesthesia.
This approach involves injecting a substance into the wart to stimulate the immune system and help it recognize and attack the virus more effectively.
In this procedure, the wart is burned off using an electric current. It’s a quick and effective method, typically performed under anesthesia.
Also read: Skin lesions: What causes this skin condition and how to treat it
Cantharidin is a chemical compound derived from blister beetles that is applied to the wart, causing it to blister and lift away from the skin. It’s usually done in a dermatologist’s office.
While warts can be challenging to prevent entirely, several measures can reduce the risk of contracting HPV and developing warts:
Abide by these tips and consult with a doctor for better treatment to remove warts!
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